Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri voiced his concerns over the performance of the Indian bowling attack during the ongoing third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s brilliant 5-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5/72 from 25 overs, Shastri criticized the rest of the bowlers for their lack of consistency and execution.
Ravi Shastr’s praise for Jasprit Bumrah
Shastri highlighted that while Bumrah executed his plans effectively, the other bowlers struggled to contain the Australian batsmen, allowing Travis Head and Steve Smith to score centuries and post a commanding total of 405/7. He emphasized the need for the bowlers to maintain discipline and focus on executing their plans with precision.
“They were giving away runs on both sides,” India great and former coach Ravi Shastri told SEN Radio.
“Bumrah has done most things right, but I think when you look at the others you think, ‘Can they execute?'”
Shastri pointed out that the bowlers were giving away runs from both sides, making it difficult for the captain to strategize. He stressed the importance of bowling on one side of the wicket and keeping lines tight to prevent easy scoring opportunities. Shastri’s comments underscored the need for improved consistency and discipline from the Indian bowling attack to support Bumrah’s efforts and help the team regain control of the match.
“They have to think how to bowl on one side of the wicket.”
“If (Head) has to score, if it’s the offside, then hold the line consistently. Then if he wants to go inside he has to take a chance.”
“When you have someone cutting you for four and pulling you for four, it becomes very hard for the captain. Then when you pitch up he drives you for four,” said Shastri.
Shastri’s critique is likely to resonate within the Indian camp as they strive to bounce back in the crucial third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The bowlers will need to heed his advice and focus on executing their plans effectively to contain the Australian batsmen and turn the tide in India’s favour.
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